This strong emotion became linked to the patriotic vervor as the Revolution was about to get underway. During the French Revolution, David played an active role artistically as he reorganized the Academe and produced numerous and spectacular propaganda exercises. He also demonstrated his amazing brushstroke politically, as an avid supporter of Robespierre, who voted for the execution of the king. Other such patriotic works include the "Oath of the Tennis Court", which is the historic event where revolution was planned out and signed upon.His interest in politics slowly began to fade towards the end of the 1700's, however was still criticized by his enemies. Soon after the Reign of Terror ended, David was punished for his work. The Moderate Directory imprisoned him. This capture was eventually faltered by his estranged wife. She lead an intervention which led to his freedom. Inspired by the heroic gesture he painted "Intervention of the Sabine Woman". Several years after David's escape from prison, Napoleon gained power in France, and David gained a new hero. David portrayed Napoleon in several propaganda paintings to show his advocacy and build public relations. However this inspiration would be short lived, virtually immediately after Napoleon fell from power, David would too. In 1815 he left in exile to Brussels, where he continued to paint mythological subjects drawn from the Greek and Roman past. He became a master of dramatic lighting, ideal forms, and gestural clarity which are all emphasized throughout all his works. David's work varies from time to time for a number of contributing factors. He was an expert at depicting the French Revolution. David's early work, shows simplistic and somewhat boring figures, not showing much action or emotion. As the revolution progressed and grew stronger, as did his quality of work. He was the leader of the Neo-Classical style in France, a keen supporter of the French revolut...
